This forum is kind of pathetic.  We have to BEG for Google to reverse an act of total stupidity.
Im sure while the genius that came up with this was in the meeting, everyone who wanted to say NO NO NO DOOONT!
Was sitting staring down at the table, shutting up so they didnt get fired for saying something.

Google, seriously, you know nothing about UI design.  Stop pretending you do and put the + sign back.

It is in no way "cleaner", any more than street signs with nothing on them is "cleaner"

How can you people work there?